Research Chemistry Intern

Our goal is to bring the widest benefits to society through enabling the analysis of anything by anyone anywhere. The company has developed a new generation of nanopore-based sensing technology for faster information-rich accessible and affordable molecular analysis. The first application is DNA/RNA sequencing and the technology is in development for the analysis of other types of molecules including proteins. The technology is used to understand and characterise the biology of humans and diseases such as cancer plants animals bacteria viruses and whole environments. With a thriving culture of ambition and strong innovation goals Oxford Nanopore is a UK headquartered company with global operations and customers in more than 125 countries.

Location: Oxford Nanopore Technologies Oxford UK
Duration: 3 months with potential for extension
Start Date: Summer 2026
Hours: Full-time

As a Summer Research Scientist Intern youll be at the forefront of DNA RNA and protein sequencing innovation. Youll have the opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects such as optimising production of DNA RNA and protein analytes characterising what youve made and analysing its performance in sequencing. Youll gain hands-on experience in a range of analytical chemistry and molecular biology techniques and collaborate with world-class scientists to push the boundaries of genomic research.

An intern position is available from the spring/summer of 2026 in our Research Chemistry team to suit dedicated undergraduate and postgraduate student scientists studying biochemistry chemistry analytical chemistry or related fields at university and who have a curiosity about pursuing a career in science.

You will be looking for an authentic and structured intern experience and be on-course to achieve at least a 2.1 degree in your chosen subject.

We are a multidisciplinary company with opportunities in a wide range of subject areas including nanopore science molecular biology and applications characterization or testing of core chemical components of our sequencing platforms and commercialisation.

All roles are hands-on and laboratory-based designed to enhance your skills and experience in key areas of chemistry. Opportunities will cover various areas including:

• Collaborating with a multi-disciplinary team to support the development of analytical workflows for nucleic acids using techniques such as HPLC UPLC and Mass Spec.
• Working in a hands-on laboratory-based environment. Learning & applying scientific technical skills in one or more key aspects of Oxford Nanopores sequencing platform technology such as biochemistry materials and surface sciences.
• Working with modified oligonucleotide conjugates (including post-synthesis modifications and conjugation).
• Using research skills to assist in the planning running testing and reporting of R&D trials. Understanding and evaluating information to solve a given problem.
• Applying and developing analytical chemistry skills to assess and characterise novel nucleic acid-based analytes and linking the results to those from nanopore sequencing.
• Manipulating and analysing data sets ensuring accurate and relevant records of experimental work. Sharing presenting and discussing findings with the team and management.
• Using excellent verbal and written communication skills to summarize key findings with the team.
• Managing time and resources to achieve tasks within given deadlines to a high standard of quality.
• Demonstrating an intellectual curiosity to both challenge and learn.

Successful candidates will be available to accept a minimum 3-month to maximum 12-month placement commencing from spring/summer 2026. Specific dates will be discussed at interview.

All roles require the intern to work full time hours for the duration of the placement and be present in our Oxford HQ on the Oxford Science Park.

• Essential: Willingness to learn under direction.
• Desirable: Self-directed learning ability.

• An opportunity to work on impactful projects in genomic sequencing contributing to technology that can transform healthcare and research.
• Mentorship from experienced engineers and scientists.
• Access to cutting-edge resources and tools such as HPLCs and Mass Specs.
• Networking opportunities within the biotech and analytical chemistry communities.
• Competitive internship compensation.

Final stage selection will take place in Oxford HQ.

If youre interested in gaining work experience in a highly skilled team of friendly scientists while contributing to the development of platforms for DNA/RNA sequencing development we would love to hear from you!

Based within beautiful landscaped surroundings with tree-lined walks water features and a lake all of which make for a wonderful working environment.

If you are looking to utilise your skills to really make a difference to humankind then consider joining our team and apply today!

Please note that no terminology in this advert is intended to discriminate on the grounds of a persons gender marital status race religion colour age disability or sexual orientation. Every candidate will be assessed only in accordance with their merits qualifications and abilities to perform the duties of the job.

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